Platanthera clavellata ​[pollination & insect interaction]

Platanthera clavellata showing the two anther sacs and the tiny grains massulae, made up of tiny grains of pollen, inside the the anther sacs. Also notice the tiny grains of pollen stuck on the stigma inbetween the the anther sacs. Schuylkill County, Pa. 7-24-25

These pictures show the wonder of the pollination of the Club Spur Orchid [Platanthera clavellata]. P. clavellata is self pollinating and in these picture you can see how this is achieved. The flowers are twisted to one side and and while still in bud and with the twisting of the the bud the the anther sacs and pollinia burst open, and the massulae made up of tiny grains of pollen, fall on the stigma, as seen in the last picture. It has taken me many years and tries to capture the the tiny inside structures of this beautiful orchid and be able to finally appreciate how this tiny orchid achieves pollination.

Unknown insect on Platanthera clavellata. Tioga County, Pa. 7-5-24 

 Club Spur Orchid [Platanthera clavellata]. Dauphin County, Pa. 7-27-22.  These flowers are considered to be self pollinating, but insects can and go explore these flowers and do move pollen between plants.

Unknown insect on Club Spur Orchid [Platanthera clavellata]. Dauphin County, Pa. 7-27-22.

Mosquito insect on Club Spur Orchid [Platanthera clavellata]. Dauphin County, Pa. 7-27-22.

 Club Spur Orchid [Platanthera clavellata]. Tioga County, Pa. 7-29-21. The two dark areas parallel to each other in the throat of the flower show the anther caps where the pollen is stored for these particular flowers. These flowers are considered to be self pollinating, but insects can and go explore these flowers and do move pollen between plants.